Republican Gov. Rick Snyder has said he is opposed to a right-to-work law in Michigan. Shirkey has been the most outspoken proponent of right to work in the Legislature. "I'm just trying to shepherd it right now," he said. "Ultimately, this is not my issue. It's our issue."

Legislation won't be introduced in Michigan until after supporters can educate the public about its benefits and verify by polls that right-to-work is viewed favorably, Shirkey said. "The legislation is written," he said. "It's teed up and ready to go."